Table Of ContentThe Project Gutenberg eBook of Speech of the Right Honourable William Pitt, in the
House of Commons, Thursday, January 31, 1799, by William Pitt
This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most other parts of the world at no cost and
with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project
Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United
States, you will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this eBook.
Title: Speech of the Right Honourable William Pitt, in the House of Commons, Thursday, January 31, 1799
On offering to the House the resolutions which he proposed as the basis of an union between Great Britain and
Ireland: Fifth Edition.
Author: William Pitt
Release Date: June 22, 2021 [eBook #65670]
Language: English
Character set encoding: UTF-8
Produced by: Charlene Taylor and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was
produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SPEECH OF THE RIGHT HONOURABLE WILLIAM
PITT, IN THE HOUSE OF COMMONS, THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 1799 ***
Fifth Edition.
SPEECH
OF THE
Right Hon. William Pitt,
&c. &c.
(ONE SHILLING AND SIXPENCE.)
SPEECH
OF THE
RIGHT HONOURABLE
WILLIAM PITT,
IN THE
HOUSE OF COMMONS,
THURSDAY, JANUARY 31, 1799,
On offering to the House the Resolutions which he proposed
as the Basis of an Union between
Great Britain and Ireland.
Fifth Edition.
LONDON:
PRINTED FOR J. WRIGHT, OPPOSITE OLD BOND-STREET,
PICCADILLY.
1799.
SPEECH
OF THE
Right Hon. William Pitt,
&c. &c.
The Speaker having read His Majesty’s Message, viz.
GEORGE REX.
“His Majesty is persuaded that the unremitting industry with which our enemies persevere in their
avowed design of effecting the Separation of Ireland from this Kingdom, cannot fail to engage the particular
attention of Parliament; and His Majesty recommends it to this House to consider of the most effectual
means of counteracting and finally defeating this design; and he trusts that a review of all the circumstances
which have recently occurred (joined to the sentiment of mutual affection and common interest), will dispose
the Parliament of both Kingdoms to provide, in the manner which they shall judge most expedient, for
settling such a complete and final adjustment as may best tend to improve and perpetuate a Connection
essential for their common security, and to augment and consolidate the Strength, Power, and Resources of
the British Empire.”
G. R.
Mr. Pitt rose, and spoke as follows:
SIR,
When I proposed to the House, the last time this subject was before them, to fix this day for the further consideration
of His Majesty’s Message, I certainly indulged the hope that the result of a similar communication to the Parliament of
Ireland would have opened a more favourable Prospect, than at present exists, of the speedy accomplishment of a
measure which I then stated, and which I still consider, to be of the greatest importance to the power, the stability, and
the general welfare of the Empire; to the immediate interests of both Kingdoms; and more particularly to the peace, the
tranquillity, and the safety of Ireland: in this hope, I am sorry to say, I have for the present been disappointed, by the
proceedings of the Irish House of Commons, of which we have been informed since this subject was last under
consideration.
I feel and know that the Parliament of Ireland possesses the power, the intire competence, on the behalf of that
country, alike to accept or reject a proposition of this nature—a power which I am by no means inclined to dispute. I
see that at the present moment one House of Parliament in Ireland has expressed a repugnance, even to the
consideration of this measure. Feeling, Sir, as I have already stated, that it is important, not only as it tends to the
general prosperity of the Empire of Great Britain, but (what, under every situation, must always be to me an object of
the greatest moment) feeling that it was designed and calculated to increase the prosperity and ensure the safety of
Ireland, I must have seen with the deepest regret that, at the very first moment, and before the nature of the measure
could be known, it was so received.
But whatever may have been my feelings upon this subject, knowing that it is the undoubted right of the Legislature of
Ireland to reject or to adopt such measures as may appear to them injurious or beneficial, far be it from me to speak of
[1]
[2]
[3]
[4]
its determination in any other terms but those of respect. Let it not, therefore, be imagined that I am inclined to press
any sentiment, however calculated it may appear to me to benefit every member of the Empire, in any manner which
may lead to hostile discussion between two Kingdoms, whose mutual happiness and safety depend upon their being
strictly and cordially united. But while I admit and respect the rights of the Parliament of Ireland, I feel that, as a
Member of the Parliament of Great Britain, I also have a Right to exercise, and a Duty to perform. That Duty is to
express, as distinctly as I can, the general nature and outline of the Plan, which, in my conscience, I think would tend in
the strongest manner to ensure the safety and the happiness of both Kingdoms.
While I feel, therefore, that as long as the House of Commons of Ireland view the subject in the light they do at
present, there is no chance of its adoption, I do not think that I ought on that account to abstain from submitting it to the
consideration of this Parliament; on the contrary, I think it only the more necessary to explain distinctly the principles of
the Measure, and to state the grounds upon which it appears to me to be entitled to the approbation of the Legislature.
If Parliament, when it is in possession of the basis upon which this Plan is founded, and of its general outline, should
be of opinion with me, that it is founded upon fair, just, and equitable principles, calculated to produce mutual
advantages to the two Kingdoms—if Parliament, I say, upon full explanation, and after mature deliberation, should be of
that opinion, I should propose that its determination should remain recorded as that by which the Parliament of Great
Britain is ready to abide, leaving to the Legislature of Ireland to reject or to adopt it hereafter, upon a full consideration
of the subject.
There is no man who will deny that in a great question of this nature, involving in it objects which, in the first instance,
are more likely to be decided upon by passion than by judgment; in a question in which an honest but, I must be
allowed to say, a mistaken sense of National Pride is so likely to operate, that much misconstruction and misconception
must inevitably happen. It therefore becomes the more necessary that the intentions of the Government which proposes
the Measure, and the principles of the Measure itself, should be distinctly understood. But, Sir, in stating that intention
and those principles, I look to something more than a mere vindication of Government for having proposed the
Measure. I do entertain a confidence, even under the apparent discouragement of the opinion expressed by the Irish
House of Commons, that this Measure is founded upon such clear, such demonstrable grounds of utility, is so calculated
to add to the strength and power of the Empire, (in which the safety of Ireland is included, and from which it never can
be separated) and is attended with so many advantages to Ireland in particular, that all that can be necessary for its
ultimate adoption is, that it should be stated distinctly, temperately, and fully, and that it should be left to the
unprejudiced, the dispassionate, the sober judgment of the Parliament of Ireland. I wish that those whose interests are
involved in this measure should have time for its consideration—I wish that time should be given to the Landed, to the
Mercantile, and Manufacturing Interest, that they should look at it in all its bearings, and that they should coolly examine
and sift the popular arguments by which it has been opposed, and that then they should give their deliberate and final
judgment.
I am the more encouraged in this hope of the ultimate success of this measure, when I see, notwithstanding all the
prejudices which it has excited, that barely more than one-half of the members that attended the House of Commons
were adverse to it; and that in the other House of Parliament in Ireland, containing, as it does, so large a portion of the
property of that kingdom, it was approved of by a large majority.—When I have reason to believe that the sentiments
of a large part of the People of that Country are favourable to it; and that much of the Manufacturing, and of the
Commercial Interest of Ireland are already sensible how much it is calculated to promote their advantage, I think, when
it is more deliberately examined, and when it is seen in what temper it is here proposed and discussed, that it will still
terminate in that which can alone be a fortunate result.
It would be vain indeed to hope that a proposition upon which prejudices are so likely to operate, and which is so
liable to misconception, should be unanimously approved. But the approbation I hope for is, that of the Parliament of
Ireland, and of the intelligent part of the Public of that Country. It is with a view to this object that I think it my duty to
bring this measure forward at present; not for the sake of urging its immediate adoption, but that it may be known and
recorded; that the intention of the British Parliament may be known, in the hope that it will produce similar sentiments
among our Countrymen in Ireland. With this view it is my intention not to go at present into any detailed statement of the
plan, because should it ultimately be adopted, the minuter parts must necessarily become the objects of much distinct
discussion; but to give such a general statement of the nature of the measure as will enable the House to form a correct
judgment upon it.
I shall therefore, Sir, before I sit down, open to the House a string of Resolutions, comprising the general heads of
this plan. It will be necessary for me, for the purpose of discussing those Resolutions with regularity and convenience, to
move that the House should resolve itself into a Committee. And I have already stated, that it is not my intention then to
press the Committee to come to an immediate decision upon the Resolutions; but if, upon full and deliberate
examination, the Resolutions which I shall have the honour to propose, and which contain as much as is necessary for
an outline of the plan, shall be approved, my opinion is, that nothing can contribute more to obviate any doubts and
dissatisfaction which may exist, than that Parliament should adopt those Resolutions, and that it should then humbly lay
them at the foot of the Throne, leaving it to His Majesty’s wisdom to communicate them to the Parliament of Ireland,
[5]
[6]
[7]
[8]
[9]
[10]
whenever circumstances should appear favourable to such a Measure. I shall therefore, Sir, proceed as shortly as I can
to state to the House the nature, of the Resolutions, and of the Address which I shall propose to accompany them, if it
should be the pleasure of the House to adopt them.
Having now, Sir, explained to the House the mode I mean to pursue, and my reasons for persisting, under the
present circumstances, in submitting this Measure to the consideration of Parliament, I will endeavour to state the
general grounds on which it rests, the general arguments by which it is recommended, and to give a short view of the
outline of the Plan.
As to the general principle upon which, the whole of this Measure is founded, I am happy to observe, from what
passed upon a former occasion, that there is not a probability of any difference of opinion. The general principle, to
which both sides of the House perfectly acceded, is, that a perpetual Connection between Great Britain and Ireland is
essential to the interests of both. The only Honourable Gentleman who, when this subject was before the House on a
former day, opposed the consideration of the Plan altogether, stated, in terms as strong as I could wish, the necessity of
preserving the strictest Connection between the two Countries. I most cordially agree with him in that opinion, but I then
stated, that I do not barely wish for the maintenance of that Connection as tending to add to the general strength of the
Empire, but I wish for the maintenance of it with a peculiar regard to the local interests of Ireland, with a regard to every
thing that can give to Ireland its due weight and importance, as a great member of the Empire. I wish for it with a view
of giving to that Country the means of improving all its great natural Resources, and of giving it a full participation of all
those blessings which this Country so eminently enjoys.
Considering the subject in this point of view, and assuming it as a proposition not to be controverted, that it is the
duty of those who wish to promote the Interest and Prosperity of both Countries, to maintain the strongest connection
between them, let me ask, what is the situation of Affairs that has called us to the discussion of this subject? This very
connection, the necessity of which has been admitted on all hands, has been attacked by Foreign Enemies, and by
Domestic Traitors. The dissolution of this connection is the great object of the hostility of the common Enemies of both
Countries, it is almost the only remaining hope with which they now continue the contest. Baffled and defeated as they
have hitherto been, they still retain the hope, they are still meditating attempts, to dissolve that connection. In how many
instances already the defeat of their hostile designs has been turned to the confirmation of our Strength and Security, I
need not enumerate. God grant that in this instance the same favour of Divine Providence, which has in so many
instances protected this Empire, may again interpose in our favour, and that the attempts of the Enemy to separate the
two Countries, may tend ultimately to knit them more closely together, to strengthen a Connection, the best pledge for
the happiness of both, and so add to that power which forms the chief barrier to the civilized world, against the
destructive principles, the dangerous projects, and the unexampled usurpation of France. This Connection has been
attacked not only by the avowed Enemies of both Countries, but by internal Treason, acting in concert with the designs
of the Enemy. Internal Treason, which ingrafted Jacobinism on those diseases which necessarily grew out of the State
and Condition of Ireland.
Thinking, then, as we all must think, that a close Connection with Ireland is essential to the interests of both
Countries, and seeing how much this Connection is attacked, let it not be insinuated that it is unnecessary, much less
improper, at this arduous and important crisis, to see whether some new arrangements, some fundamental regulations,
are not necessary, to guard against the threatened danger. The foreign and domestic Enemies of these Kingdoms have
shewn, that they think this the vulnerable point in which We may be most successfully attacked; let us derive advantage,
if we can, from the hostility of our Enemies—let us profit by the designs of those who, if their conduct displays no true
wisdom, at least possess in an eminent degree that species of wisdom which is calculated for the promotion of mischief.
They know upon what footing that Connection rests at this moment between the two Countries, and they feel the most
ardent hope, that the two Parliaments will be infatuated enough not to render their designs abortive, by fixing that
Connection upon a more solid basis.
These circumstances I am sure will not be denied. And if upon other grounds we had any doubt, these circumstances
alone ought to induce us, deliberately and dispassionately, to review the situation of the two Countries, and to
endeavour to find out a proper remedy for an evil, the existence of which is but too apparent. It requires but a
moment’s reflection, for any man who has marked the progress of events, to decide upon the true state and character of
this Connection. It is evidently one which does not afford that security which, even in times less dangerous and less
critical than the present, would have been necessary, to enable the empire to avail itself of its strength and its resources.
When I last addressed the House on this subject, I stated that the settlement, which was made in 1782, so far from
deserving the name of a Final Adjustment, was one that left the Connection between Great Britain and Ireland exposed
to all the attacks of Party, and all the effects of accident. That Settlement consisted in the demolition of the System
which before held the two Countries together. Let me not be understood as expressing any regret at the termination of
that System. I disapproved of it, because I thought it was one unworthy the liberality of Great Britain, and injurious to
the interests of Ireland. But to call that a System in itself—to call that a glorious fabric of human wisdom—which is no
more than the mere demolition of another System—is a perversion of terms which, however prevalent of late, can only
be the effect of gross misconception, or of great hypocrisy. We boast that we have done every thing, when we have
[10]
[11]
[12]
[13]
[14]
[15]
merely destroyed all that before existed, without substituting any thing in its place. Such was the Final Adjustment of
1782; and I can prove it to be so, not only from the plainest reasoning, but I can prove it by the opinion expressed by
the British Parliament at that very time. I can prove it by the opinion expressed by those very Ministers by whom it was
proposed and conducted. I refer, for what I have said, to proofs which they will find it very difficult to answer; I mean
their own acts, which will plainly shew that they were of opinion that a new System would be necessary. But, Sir, I will
go farther—I will also produce the authority of one of those whose influence, on the present occasion, has been
peculiarly exerted to prevent the discussion of the question in Ireland—of one, of whom I do not wish to speak but with
respect, but for whom, nevertheless, I should convey an idea of more respect, than I can now feel to be due to him, if I
were merely to describe him as the person who fills the same situation, in the House of Commons of Ireland, which you,
Sir, hold among us, and of which on all occasions you discharge the duties with a dignity and impartiality which reflects
so much credit on yourself, and so well supports the character and authority of the House.
On a former night, I read an Extract from the Journals, to shew what was the opinion even of those by whom the
Final Adjustment was proposed on that Measure. It would there appear, that the Message was sent to the Parliament
of Ireland, recommending to them the adoption of some Plan for a Final Adjustment between the two Countries, and
wishing to know what were the grounds of the grievances of which they complained. In answer to this Message, the
Parliament of Ireland stated certain grievances, the principal of which was, the power claimed by the Parliament of
Great Britain of making Laws to bind Ireland; but, with respect to that part of the Message which related to the
propriety of adopting some Measures for a Final Adjustment between the two Countries, they were wholly silent. This
Address was laid before the Parliament of Great Britain, to whom a similar Message had been previously sent, and on
that ground was moved the Repeal of what was called the Declaratory Act, which Motion was assented to by the
British Parliament. This satisfaction was compleat to Ireland, as far as related to the grievance of which her Parliament
had complained, viz. the Power of the British Parliament of making Laws for Ireland, because, by the Repeal of the
Declaratory Act, that power was given up. But so far was the Minister of that day from considering that the Repeal of
that Law finally terminated all differences, and established the Connection between the two Countries upon a solid
basis, that he thought it necessary to move that a farther Settlement was indispensable for the maintenance of that
Connection.
[Mr. Sheridan across the Table, desired that that part of the Journals to which Mr. Pitt alluded, might be
read.]
Mr. Pitt continued. Sir, I have stated the substance of the Journals correctly; they were read on a former night, and
the Honourable Gentleman may, if he chooses, have them read again.[1] If he does he will find that they fully justify the
statement I have made, but I beg that at present I may not be interrupted. I do maintain, that upon a reference to the
Journals of the period to which I have alluded, it will appear that a farther agreement between Great Britain and Ireland
is there dated, in the opinion of the Administration of the day, to be absolutely necessary.
Vide Appendix.
I beg farther to state, that after the motion for the Bill of which so much has been said, was passed, an Address to
His Majesty was moved and carried, praying him to take such further measures as to him seemed proper, to strengthen
the Connection between the two Countries. His Majesty’s most Gracious Answer, stating, that in compliance with the
Address, he would immediately take such measures as might be necessary for that purpose, was delivered to the House
by an Honourable Gentleman who then filled the office of Secretary of State, and whom we have not lately seen in the
House, though he still continues to be a Member of it. I do assert, without the least fear of contradiction from any
Gentleman whatever, that it was in the contemplation of the Government of that day, to adopt some measures of the
nature alluded to in the Address; since that period, however, no such measure has been taken. I do also maintain, that
that very system which by these very Ministers who brought it forward was found to be imperfect, even for the purpose
of maintaining the Connection between the two Countries, remains at this moment in the same imperfect state. It leaves
the two Countries with separate and independent Legislatures, connected only with this tie, that the Third Estate in both
Countries is the same—that the Executive Government is the same—that the Crown exercises its power of assenting to
Irish Acts of Parliament under the Great Seal of Great Britain, and by the advice of British Ministers.
This is the only principle of Connection which is left by the Final Adjustment of 1782. Whether this is a sufficient tie
to unite them in time of Peace; whether in time of War it is sufficient to consolidate their strength against a Common
Enemy; whether it is sufficient to guard against those local jealousies which must necessarily sometimes exist between
countries so connected; whether it is calculated to give to Ireland all the important commercial and political advantages
which she would derive from a closer Connection with Great Britain; whether it can give to both Nations that degree of
strength and prosperity which must be the result of such a Measure as the present, I believe needs only to be stated to
be decided.
But I have already said, that I have upon this point, the authority of an opinion to which I before alluded—an opinion
delivered upon a very important Measure, very soon after the Final Adjustment of 1782. The Measure to which I refer,
was that of the Commercial Propositions which were brought forward in 1785. I am not now going to enter into a
[16]
[17]
[18]
[1]
[19]
[20]
[21]
discussion of the merits of that Measure. The best, perhaps, that can be said of it is, that it went as far as circumstances
would then permit, to draw the two Countries to a closer Connection. But those who think that the Adjustment of 1782
was final, and that it contained all that was necessary for the establishment of the Connection between the two
Countries upon a firm basis, can hardly contend that the Commercial Propositions of 1785 were necessary to prevent
the danger of separation between the two Countries, and to prevent the conflicting operation of Independent
Legislatures. Yet, if I am not mistaken, there will be found, upon a reference to better Records than those in which
Parliamentary Debates are usually stated (I mean a statement of what passed in the discussion upon those Propositions
fourteen years ago, made, as I have understood, by some of the principal parties themselves) that the Chancellor of the
Exchequer of that day in Ireland, in a Debate upon the Irish Propositions, held this language—“If this infatuated Country
gives up the present offer, she may look for it again in vain.” Here the Right Honourable Gentleman was happily
mistaken; Ireland has again had the offer of the same advantages, but more compleat, and in all respects better
calculated to attain their object; and this offer the Right Honourable Gentleman has exerted all his influence to reject.
But he goes on to say—“things cannot remain as they are—Commercial jealousy is roused—it will increase with two
independent Legislatures—and without an united interest in commerce, in a commercial Empire, political Union will
receive many shocks, and separation of interest must threaten separation of Connection, which every honest
Irishman must shudder to look at, as a possible event.”
Gentlemen will have the goodness to observe, that I am not now quoting these expressions as pledges given by that
Right Honourable Gentleman that he would support a proposal for a Union between the two Countries, but I am
adducing them to prove that the situation of the two Countries after the Final Adjustment of 1782, was such, in his
opinion, as led to the danger of a separation between them. I am not now arguing that a Legislative Union is the only
measure which can possibly be adopted, but I am contending that the Adjustment of 1782 was never considered as
final, by those who now state it to be so as an argument against the consideration of the present measure. How the
Honourable Gentleman on the other side of the House will evade this authority I do not know;—an authority too,
which, I must observe, he seems much more inclined to treat with respect than he was formerly.
But, Sir, it does not stop there. What is the evil to which he alludes? Commercial jealousies between two Countries
acting upon the laws of two independent Legislatures, and the danger of those Legislatures acting in opposition to each
other.—How can this evil be remedied? By two means only; either by some Compact entered into by the Legislatures
of the two Countries respecting the mode of forming their commercial regulations, or else by blending the two
Legislatures together; these are the only two means. I defy the wit of man to point out a third. The mode of compact
was proposed in 1785, but unfortunately, in spite of that Right Honourable Gentleman’s eloquence and authority, who
then stated the importance of guarding against the evil, it so happened that doctrines, derived chiefly from this side of the
water, succeeded in convincing the Parliament of Ireland, that it would be inconsistent with their independence, to enter
into any compact whatever. We have then the authority of that Right Honourable Gentleman to whom I have so often
alluded, that the unsettled state in which the matter was left, would give “Political Union many shocks, and lead to a
separation of Connection.” The experiment of a mutual Compact has been tried without success; the arrangement of
that sort, which was proposed in 1785, in order to obviate the inconveniences stated by the Right Honourable
Gentleman, was then attacked with the same success against his authority, as another and more effectual remedy has
recently experienced under his auspices. The result then is—you must remain in the state which that Right Honourable
Gentleman has described, with the seeds of separation in the system now established, and with the Connection, on
which the mutual prosperity of both countries depends in danger of being hourly dissolved, or you must again recur to
the proposal of a compact similar to that rejected in 1785, or you must resort to the best and most effectual remedy,
—a Legislative Union.
I have dwelt longer, perhaps, upon this part of the subject than was absolutely necessary, because I believe there is
scarcely any man who has ever asked himself, whether there is a solid, permanent system of Connection between the
two Countries, who could, upon reflection, answer the question in the affirmative. But besides the authorities of the
persons who made the arrangement in 1782, and of those who have since treated of it, to shew that it was not deemed
to be final and complete; I have further the test of experience to shew how imperfect it was, and how inadequate in
practice to the great object of cementing the Connection, and placing it beyond the danger of being dissolved. In the
single instance, which has occurred, (and that a melancholy one which all of us deplored,) in which we could feel the
effects of two jarring Legislatures, We did feel it. On that occasion, it might have produced the most signal calamities,
had we not been rescued from its danger by an event, to which no man can now look back without feeling the utmost
joy and exultation; feelings, which subsequent circumstances have served to heighten and confirm. Every Gentleman will
know, that I must allude to the Regency. With two independent Legislatures, acting upon different principles, it was
accident alone that preserved the identity of the Executive Power, which is the bond and security of the Connection:
And even then the Executive authority, though vested in one person, would have been held by two different tenures, by
one tenure in England, by another in Ireland, had not the interposition of Providence prevented a circumstance pregnant
with the most imminent perils, and which might have operated to a separation of the two kingdoms.
After seeing the recorded opinion of Parliament, of those who made the arrangement of 1782, and after the decided
testimony of experience on the subject, within the short period of sixteen years, perhaps, it is hardly necessary to appeal
to farther proofs of its inadequacy, or to desire Gentlemen to look forward to possible cases, which I could easily put,
[22]
[23]
[24]
[25]
[26]
[27]
and which will naturally suggest themselves to the minds of all, who chuse to turn their attention to the subject.
But when we consider the distinct powers possessed by the two Legislatures on all the great questions of Peace and
War, of alliances and confederacies,—(for they each have in principle, a right to discuss them and decide upon them,
though one of them has hitherto been wisely restrained by discretion, from the exercise of that right),—have we not seen
circumstances to induce us to think it possible, at least, that on some of these important questions the opinions and
decisions of the two Parliaments might have been at variance? Are we talking of an indissoluble Connection, when we
see it thus perpetually liable to be endangered? Can we really think that the interests of the Empire, or of its different
branches rest upon a safe and solid basis at present? I am anxious to discuss this point closely with any man, either
here, or in Ireland. Will it be said, that the Parliament of the latter Country is bound by our decision on the question of
Peace or War? And if not so bound, will any man, looking at human Nature as it is, contend, that there is a sufficient
certainty that the decision on that important subject will always be the same in both countries? I should be glad to
receive a distinct answer to this question, from the Honourable Gentleman who has declared himself to be as warm a
friend to the Connection between the two Countries as I am.
Suppose, for instance, that the present war, which the Parliament of Great Britain considers to be just and necessary,
had been voted by the Irish Parliament, to be unjust, unnecessary, extravagant, and hostile to the principles of humanity
and freedom.—Would that Parliament have been bound by this Country? If not;—what security have we, at a moment
the most important to our common interest and common salvation, that the two Kingdoms should have but one friend
and one foe? I repeat it; I am eager to hear what can be said in justification of a basis so imperfect and unsound, and
liable to be shaken by so many accidents. I have already observed, that in the peculiar circumstances of the present
moment, we may find stronger reasons to prove the necessity of correcting the system of Connection between this
Country and Ireland, of supplying its imperfections, and strengthening its weakness, than are to be found at any former
period.
Having thus stated, Sir, and I think sufficiently proved, that the Settlement of 1782, in every point of view in which it
can be considered, is imperfect, and inadequate to the object of maintaining the connection between the two kingdoms,
I proceed next to the circumstances which peculiarly call upon us at the present moment to remedy that imperfection.
This Country is at this time engaged in the most important, and momentous conflict, that ever occurred in the History
of the World; a conflict in which Great Britain is distinguished for having made the only manly and successful stand
against the common enemies of civilized society. We see the point in which that Enemy think us the most assailable—
Are we not then bound in policy and prudence, to strengthen that vulnerable point, involved as we are in a contest of
Liberty against Despotism—of Property against Plunder and Rapine—of Religion and Order against Impiety and
Anarchy? There was a time when this would have been termed declamation; but, unfortunately, long and bitter
experience has taught us to feel that it is only the feeble and imperfect representation of those calamities (the result of
French Principles and French Arms), which are every day attested by the wounds of a bleeding world.
Is there a man who does not admit the importance of a measure which, at such a crisis, may augment the strength of
the Empire, and thereby ensure its safety? Would not that benefit to Ireland be of itself so solid, so inestimable, that, in
comparison with it, all Commercial Interests, and the preservation of local habits and manners, would be trifling, even if
they were endangered by the present measure;—which they undoubtedly are not? The people of Ireland are proud, I
believe, of being associated with us in the great contest in which we are engaged, and must feel the advantage of
augmenting the general force of the Empire. That the present measure is calculated to produce that effect, is a
proposition which I think cannot be disputed. There is not in any Court of Europe a Statesman so ill informed as not to
know, that the general power of the Empire would be increased to a very great extent indeed, by such a consolidation
of the strength of the two Kingdoms. In the course of the Century every writer of any information on the subject has
held the same language, and in the general strength of the Empire both Kingdoms are more concerned than in any
particular interests which may belong to either. If we were to ask the Ministers of our Allies, what measure they thought
the most likely to augment the power of the British Empire, and consequently increase that strength by which they were
now protected—if we were to ask the Agent of our Enemies, what measure would be the most likely to render their
designs abortive—the answer would be the same in both cases, viz. the firm consolidation of every part of the Empire.
There is another consideration well worth attention. Recollect what are the peculiar means by which we have been
enabled to resist the unequalled and eccentric efforts of France, without any diminution, nay, with an increase, of our
general prosperity—what, but the great Commercial Resources which we possess? A Measure, then, which must
communicate to such a mighty Limb of the Empire as Ireland, all the Commercial advantages which Great Britain
possesses, which will open the markets of the one Country to the other, which will give them both the common use of
their Capital, must, by diffusing a large portion of wealth into Ireland, considerably increase the Resources, and
consequently the strength, of the whole Empire.
But it is not merely in this general view, that I think the Question ought to be considered.—We ought to look to it
with a view peculiarly to the permanent interest and security of Ireland. When that Country was threatened with the
double danger of hostile attacks by Enemies without, and of Treason within, from what quarter did she derive the means
[28]
[29]
[30]
[31]
[32]
[33]
of her deliverance?—from the Naval Force of Great Britain—from the voluntary exertions of her Military of every
description, not called for by Law—and from her pecuniary resources, added to the loyalty and energy of the
Inhabitants of Ireland itself;—of which it is impossible to speak with too much praise, and which shews how well they
deserve to be called the Brethren of Britons. Their own courage might, perhaps, have ultimately succeeded, in repelling
the dangers by which they were threatened, but it would have been after a long contest, and after having waded through
seas of blood. Are we sure that the same ready and effectual assistance which we have happily afforded, on the present
occasion, will be always equally within our power? Great Britain has always felt a common interest in the safety of
Ireland; but that common interest was never so obvious and urgent as when the Common Enemy made her attack upon
Great Britain, through the medium of Ireland, and when their attack upon Ireland went to deprive her of her Connection
with Great Britain, and to substitute in stead, the new Government of the French Republic. When that danger threatened
Ireland, the purse of Great Britain was open for the wants of Ireland, as for the necessities of England.
I do not, Sir, state these circumstances, as upbraiding Ireland for the benefits we have conferred; far from it; but I
state them with pleasure, as shewing the friendship and good will with which this Country has acted towards her. But if
struggles of this sort may and must return again, if the worst dangers are those which are yet to come, dangers which
may be greater from being more disguised—if those situations may arise when the same means of relief are not in our
power, what is the remedy that reason and policy point out? It is to identify them with us—it is to make them part of the
same Community, by giving them a full share of those accumulated blessings which are diffused throughout Great
Britain; it is, in a word, by giving them a full participation of the Wealth, the Power, and the Stability, of the British
Empire. If then this Measure comes recommended not only by the obvious defects of the system which now exists, but
that it has also the pre-eminent recommendation of increasing the general power of the Empire, and of guarding against
future danger from the Common Enemy, we are next to consider it as to its effects upon the internal condition of
Ireland.
I know perfectly well, that as long as Ireland is separated from Great Britain, any attempt on our part to provide
measures which we might think salutary, as respecting questions of contending sects or parties, of the claimed rights of
the Catholics, or of the precautions necessary for the security of the Protestants—I know that all these, though they may
have been brought forward by the very persons who are the advocates of the Final Adjustment in 1782, were, in fact,
attacks upon the Independence of the Irish Parliament, and attempts to usurp the Right of deciding on points which can
only be brought within our province by Compact. Until the Kingdoms are united, any attempt to make regulations here
for the internal state of Ireland must certainly be a violation of her Independence. But feeling as I do, for their interests
and their welfare, I cannot be inattentive to the events that are passing before me; I must therefore repeat, that whoever
looks at the circumstances to which I have alluded—whoever considers that the Enemy have shewn by their conduct,
that they considered Ireland as the weakest and most vulnerable part of the Empire; whoever reflects upon those
dreadful and inexcusable cruelties instigated by the Enemies of both Countries, and upon those lamentable severities by
which the exertions for the defense of Ireland were unhappily, but unavoidably, attended, and the necessity of which is
itself one great aggravation of the Crimes and Treasons which led to them, must feel that, as it now stands composed, in
the hostile division of its Sects, in the animosities existing between ancient Settlers and original Inhabitants, in the
ignorance and want of Civilization, which marks that Country more than almost any other Country in Europe, in the
unfortunate prevalence of Jacobin Principles, arising from these causes, and augmenting their malignity, and which have
produced that distressed state which we now deplore; every one, I say, who reflects upon all these circumstances, must
agree with me in thinking, that there is no cure but in the formation of a General Imperial Legislature, free alike from
terror and from resentment, removed from the danger and agitation, uninfluenced by the prejudices and uninflamed by
the passions of that distracted Country.
I know that it is impossible, if we wish to consider this subject properly, to consider it in any other point of view than
as it affects the Empire in general. I know that the interests of the two Countries must be taken together, and that a man
cannot speak as a true Englishman, unless he speaks as a true Irishman, nor as a true Irishman, unless he speaks as a
true Englishman: But if it was possible to separate them, and I could consider myself as addressing you, not as
interested for the Empire at large, but for Ireland alone, I should say, that it would be indispensably necessary, for the
sake of that Country, to compose its present distractions, by the adoption of another system:—I should say, that the
establishment of an Imperial Legislature was the only means of healing its wounds and of restoring it to tranquillity. I
must here take the liberty of alluding to some topics which were touched upon during the discussion of the former night.
Among the great and known defects of Ireland, one of the most prominent features is, its want of industry and a
capital; how are those wants to be supplied, but by blending more closely with Ireland, the industry and the capital of
this Country. But, above all, in the great leading distinctions between the People of Ireland, I mean their religious
distinctions, what is their situation?—The Protestant feels that the claims of the Catholics threatens the existence of the
Protestant ascendancy; while, on the other hand, the great body of Catholics feel the establishment of the National
Church, and their exclusion from the exercise of certain rights, and privileges, a grievance. Between the two, it becomes
a matter of difficulty in the minds of many persons, whether it would be better to listen only to the fears of the former, or
to grant the claims of the latter.
I am well aware that the subject of religious distinction is a dangerous and delicate topic, especially when applied to a
[34]
[35]
[36]
[37]
[38]
country such as Ireland; the situation of which is different in this respect from that of every other. Where the established
religion of the State is the same as the general religion of the Empire, and where the property of the Country is in the
hands of a comparatively small number of persons professing that established religion, while the religion of a great
majority of the people is different, it is not easy to say, on general principles, what system of Church Establishment in
such a Country would be free from difficulty and inconvenience. By many I know it will be contended, that the religion
professed by a majority of the people, would at least be entitled to an equality of Privileges. I have heard such an
argument urged in this House; but those who apply it without qualification to the case of Ireland, forget surely the
principles on which English Interest and English Connection has been established in that Country, and on which its
present Legislature is formed. No man can say, that, in the present State of things, and while Ireland remains a separate
kingdom, full concessions could be made to the Catholics, without endangering the State, and shaking the Constitution
of Ireland to its centre.
On the other hand, without anticipating the discussion, or the propriety of agitating the question, or saying how soon
or how late it may be fit to discuss it; two propositions are indisputable: First, When the conduct of the Catholics shall
be such as to make it safe for the Government to admit them to the participation of the privileges granted to those of the
Established Religion, and when the temper of the times shall be favourable to such a measure;—When these events take
place, it is obvious that such a question may be agitated in an United, Imperial Parliament, with much greater safety,
than it could be in a separate Legislature. In the second place, I think it certain that, even for whatever period it may be
thought necessary, after the Union, to withhold from the Catholics the enjoyment of those advantages, many of the
objections which at present arise out of their situation would be removed, if the Protestant Legislature were no longer
separate and local, but general and Imperial; and the Catholics themselves would at once feel a mitigation of the most
goading and irritating of their present causes of complaint.
How far, in addition to this great and leading consideration, it may also be wise and practicable to accompany the
measure by some mode of relieving the lower orders from the pressure of Tithes, which in many instances operate at
present as a great practical evil, or to make, under proper Regulations, and without breaking in on the security of the
present Protestant Establishment, an effectual and adequate provision for the Catholic Clergy, it is not now necessary to
discuss. It is sufficient to say, that these, and all other subordinate points connected with the same subject, are more
likely to be permanently and satisfactorily settled by an United Legislature, than by any local arrangements. On these
grounds I contend, that with a view to providing an effectual remedy for the distractions which have unhappily prevailed
in Ireland, with a view of removing those causes which have endangered, and still endanger its security, the measure
which I am now proposing promises to be more effectual than any other which can be devised, and on these grounds
alone, if there existed no other, I should feel it my duty to submit it to the House.
But, Sir, though what I have thus stated relates most immediately to the great object of healing the dissentions, and
providing for the internal tranquillity of Ireland; there are also other objects which, though comparatively with this of
inferior importance, are yet in themselves highly material, and in a secondary view, well worthy of attention.
I have heard it asked, when I pressed the measure, what are the positive advantages that Ireland is to derive from it?
To this very question I presume the considerations which I have already urged afford a sufficient answer. But, in fact,
the question itself is to be considered in another view; and it will be found to bear some resemblance to a question
which has been repeatedly put, by some of the Gentlemen opposite to me, during the last six years. What are the
advantages which Great Britain has gained by the present war with France?
To this, the brilliant successes of the British arms by sea and land, our unexampled naval victories over all our
enemies, the solid acquisition of valuable territory, the general increase of our power, the progressive extension of our
commerce, and a series of events more glorious than any that ever adorned the page of our history, afford at once an
ample and a satisfactory answer. But there is another general answer which we have uniformly given, and which would
alone be sufficient; it is, that we did not enter into this war for any purpose of ambition; our object was not to acquire,
but to preserve; and in this sense, what we have gained by the war is, in one word, all that we should have lost without
it: it is, the preservation of our Constitution, our Independence, our Honour, our Existence as a Nation.
In the same manner I might answer the question with respect to Ireland; I might enumerate the general advantages
which Ireland would derive from the effects of the Arrangement to which I have already referred: The Protection which
she will secure to herself in the hour of danger. The most effectual means of increasing her Commerce and improving
her Agriculture, the command of English Capital, the infusion of English Manners and English Industry, necessarily
tending to ameliorate her Condition, to accelerate the progress of internal civilization, and to terminate those feuds and
dissentions which now distract the Country, and which she does not possess, within herself, the power either to controul
or to extinguish. She would see the avenue t...
